We, as members of the diaconal community of the Diocese of Rochester, establish this association to build and nurture community among Deacons, candidates, aspirants, wives, widows and families. Specifically, we join together to promote the spiritual life and to support diaconal ministerial life with special attention to those in formation as they discern their vocation. We do this out of a sense of the unique bond we share, a bond of charity, prayer, obedience to our Bishop, service and witness. As a result of this association, we hope we all will grow as witnesses to Christ, the servant.

Stephen's name means "crown," and he was the first disciple of Jesus to receive the martyr's crown. Stephen was a Deacon in the early Christian Church. The apostles had found that they needed helpers to look after the care of the widows and the poor. So they ordained seven Deacons, and Stephen is the most famous of these.

As the first Deacon to commit his life to the service of the Gospel of Christ with the willingness to follow Jesus even unto death, he provides the vision of diaconal service to the Deacons of the Diocese of Rochester. (Brief Saint Stephen Bio)

Reminder: If any Deacon is considering a paid ministry position, especially one working for a parish or a diocesan entity, please contact the Director of Deacon Personnel for information about the required Remunerated Ministry Discernment process. This process is intended to assist Deacons in considering all the ramifications of entering into a remunerative position for diaconal ministry. Remunerated Ministry Guidelines

2018 Dues are due!

22.0% of the deacons have never supported SSDCA by paying dues, while...

23.8% of the deacons have supported SSDCA by faithfully paying their dues every year.

Do you know?

That SSDCA has over 200 members!

To foster everyone "knowing" each other SSDCA sponsors and encourages participation in four (4) community wide events each year: